1981 Land Rover Series III 109" Ex-MOD

Highlights

• Restored to military specification approximately seven years ago
• Maintained by a specialist Land Rover engineer and an ex-military vehicle mechanic
• Used as a show vehicle following restoration
• Fitted with authentic military equipment including NATO tow hitches and SA 80 rifle mounts
• In current ownership for over four years

The Appeal

It's a great pity Land Rover's long-standing relationship with the British Armed Forces has come to an end. The simple matter is that Land Rover non longer builds a vehicle suitable for military needs. The new Defender SUV may well be a very capable vehicle, but the likes of a Meridian Sound system and heated/cooled seats aren't exactly useful in combat situations...
The Series III, by way of contrast, is exactly the sort of vehicle that suited military use, serving with distinction in the British Armed Forces throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Ex-military examples restored to their original service specification are increasingly sought after, and well-presented survivors with authentic fittings are becoming harder to find.

This 1981 example has benefited from the stewardship of two particularly knowledgeable custodians: a specialist Land Rover engineer and restorer, followed by the current owner, an ex-military vehicle mechanic with 25 years' service. The vehicle retains period-correct military disruptive camouflage along with a range of authentic military fittings. A conversion to electronic ignition ensures reliable starting, and the vendor reports it is great fun to drive both on and off road.

Key Information

• Mileage: 19,713 miles (indicated)
• Country of registration: United Kingdom
• Technical inspection status: MOT/road tax exempt
• Technical specs: 2.25-litre inline four-cylinder petrol, four-speed manual, selectable low-range/4wd
• Paperwork: offered with limited documentation

The Detail

• Chassis and bulkhead reported to be in very good condition
• Exterior finished in period-correct military disruptive camouflage
• Minor scratches and dents present, commensurate with age and vehicle type
• Holes present where military radio equipment has been removed
• The vendor states the canvas tilt has been replaced and is in very good condition
• Interior body panels and seats reported to be in very good condition
• Minor damage to the dashboard noted
• Seat belts modified from original lap belts to inertia reel
• Fitted with NATO tow hitches at front and rear
• Fitted with 2 x SA 80 rifle mounts
• Converted to electronic ignition
• The vehicle had a new (DDS Metals) under seat fuel tank fitted in October 2025
• It has also had a new military style water pump and radiator fitted in may 2026
• The vendor states the engine starts on the first turn of the key
• Securely stored at the previous owner's business premises prior to current ownership

BEFORE YOU BUY

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